The President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Dr. Patrice Motsepe, has led tributes pouring in for the late Nigerian football icon, Peter Rufai, who passed away on Thursday, July 3, at the age of 61.
In an emotional statement issued on Friday by CAF’s Communications Department, Dr. Motsepe expressed heartfelt condolences on behalf of all 54 CAF Member Associations, describing Rufai as a symbol of excellence in African football.
READ ALSO: Edo Government Endorses E-Sports Growth, Pledges Support for Youth-Driven Digital Innovation
“Peter Rufai is part of a special generation of African football players who made the people of Nigeria and the entire African continent very proud,” Dr. Motsepe said.
Affectionately known as ‘Dodo Mayana’, Rufai was a towering figure in Nigerian football history.
He represented the Super Eagles at two FIFA World Cup tournaments (1994 and 1998) and was a standout performer in three CAF Africa Cup of Nations competitions, where he was part of the all Conquering 1994 sets in Tunisia after guiding Nigeria to Silver medal in 1984 and 1988.
“He was an enormously talented footballer and was respected in Africa and globally,” Motsepe added. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and its President, Ibrahim Gusau, his former teammates, and the people of Nigeria.”
Dr. Motsepe further emphasized that Rufai’s memory will remain etched in the hearts of football lovers across the continent: “‘Dodo Mayana’ will forever live in our hearts and minds. May his soul rest in peace.”
Rufai’s passing has sent shockwaves across the football world, with tributes pouring in from fans, former teammates, football federations, and global sports stakeholders.
“As Nigeria grapples with the loss of one of its most cherished sporting icons, his legacy stands tall as a symbol of excellence, pride, and unity for both Nigeria and Africa,” the statement concluded.
, Dr. Patrice Motsepe, has led tributes pouring in for the late Nigerian football){kind=link}